Shockwaves & Statement Wins: Group D Takes a Dramatic Turn at Women’s Euro 2025
From Zurich to St. Gallen, the drama in Group D hit full throttle on July 9. England roared back to form with a blistering 4-0 win over the Netherlands, while France delivered a masterclass in control, dispatching Wales 4-1. The route to the knockouts just got complicated.
England 4–0 Netherlands
The Lionesses Rewrite the Narrative
After a stuttering start to their campaign, England tore through the Netherlands like a team with a point to prove. No hesitation. No holding back.
Lauren James lit up Zurich with two sharp finishes, the first a curling beauty from the edge of the box, the second a predator’s poke in a packed area. Georgia Stanway reminded everyone of her long-range cannon with a stunning first-half rocket, and Ella Toone added the icing with a well-timed run and finish.
But it was Alessia Russo who stitched it all together. Her movement, intelligence, and three assists were a tactical clinic. She dragged defenders out, slipped passes between lines, and turned chaos into opportunity.
Tactically, England were transformed. Wiegman’s reshuffle saw Toone thrive, Lauren James free to drift wide, and the midfield duo of Walsh and Stanway dominate. Miedema’s centurion night for the Dutch was largely forgettable. England gave her no time, no space, and no service.
This wasn’t just a bounce back. It was a warning shot.
France 4–1 Wales
Les Bleues Cruise, But Fishlock Makes History
Seven changes? No problem. France came out with fresh legs and full firepower.
Clara Matéo seized her moment with a thunderous opener and later teed up Amel Majri for a composed finish. Kadidiatou Diani coolly converted from the spot just before halftime, and Grace Geyoro polished it off with a poacher’s finish from a sweeping move.
France pressed, passed, and controlled the tempo like a team built for the latter stages of the game. There was fluidity in attack and grit in midfield; even with a rotated squad, they didn’t miss a beat.
But amidst the French dominance, Wales found a moment of magic. Jess Fishlock, 38 and still leading the charge, wrote her name in Welsh history with their first-ever goal at a Women’s Euro finals. It was a goal born of belief, a shining highlight in a tough contest.
Wales showed resilience, but France showed ruthlessness.
All Eyes on Matchday Three
One Group, Three Contenders, No Room for Error
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England has taken control. Beat Wales, and they’re through, possibly top.
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France holds the upper hand. Avoid defeat against the Netherlands, and the group is likely theirs.
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The Netherlands are walking a tightrope. They must beat France and may still need help on goal difference.
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Wales are clinging on. They need to beat England convincingly and pray for a perfect storm elsewhere.
No one’s safe. No one’s done. Every pass, tackle, and finish on matchday three will matter.
Closing Clashlines
England are back. France are building. The Dutch are on edge. Wales are writing history.
It’s all set up for a dramatic finale. Two matches. Four teams. One unforgiving group.
Next up:
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England vs Wales
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France vs Netherlands
Clear your evening. This group isn't just going down to the wire, it's dragging us with it.
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